News Story

Austin ISD families, staff and community members provided feedback this week on a Voter Approval Tax Rate Election ahead of a possible vote to put the issue on the November 2024 ballot. 

Why it matters: The district is considering calling for a tax rate election to raise funding for Austin ISD’s schools and students in the face of a $78M budget deficit for the 2024–25 school year. 

• This feedback is critical to trustees making an informed decision. 

In case you missed the conversations, here’s what we heard and how we answered:

How much more money would benefit Austin ISD if voters approve a tax rate election?

• Austin ISD would benefit from about an additional $41M if voters were to approve a tax rate election. 

How does Austin ISD plan to use the additional $41M?

• About $17.8 million will be spent on a compensation plan that includes market adjustments for many teachers and staff members. 

• $3.2 million would be spent on additional support directly to campuses. This includes Instructional Coaches, Content Interventionists, Special Education support and Mental Health support. These allocations would be made based on the current enrollment and the student needs of each campus.

• About $20 million would be used to offset current costs to replenish our savings and stabilize the budget.

How will a VATRE affect the average homeowner’s school taxes?

• If approved, a homeowner of an average value home in Austin would see a monthly increase of about $34 in Austin ISD property taxes, or roughly $412 per year. 

What’s next: The board may vote to put the tax rate election on the ballot at its Aug. 15 public hearing.

The public has the opportunity to provide comment at the meeting.